Virgin Voyages vs Holland America

 I've cruised Carnival, MSC, Norwegian, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Holland America and Virgin Voyages.  Of those, I prefer HAL and Virgin.  I'm basing this on my experience with longer cruises.  Since I've only done the current 14 day on Virgin, I can't talk about what the experience is like on their more typical 4-7 day itineraries.

Here are my thoughts about who wins, loses or ties in what I consider key categories.

Crew/Service - Holland America, by a hair.  Both lines have a "no tipping" policy.  Both brag about great service.  In my experience they are similar.  Crew is friendly, helpful and service oriented on both lines.  But, Virgin embarkation in Barcelona was a cluster.  Waiting in the sun for more than 30 minutes to embark in Las Palmas was a turn off. And, I've skipped several shows because there are lines to get in 30-60 minutes before the show.  That's a hard no from me.  

Food - Virgin, by a hair.  I'm enjoying the variety of "specialty" restaurants on board Virgin, although I do miss a sit-down table service lunch option on board, like the Main Dining room on HAL.  I've had great meals on both lines and also a few clunkers.  For me, the Test Kitchen, Gumbae and the take-away fridge in the Galley tip the scales to Virgin.   Holland has classic food loved by us geezers but Virgin has some unique and creative options that I'm loving.  Holland America needs to try the tacos in the Gallley, then revisit their sad "taco bar".  The downside with Virgin is the difficulty in getting reservations for the "specialty restaurants".  And, I do miss free afternoon tea on HAL.

Bottom line, both are cooking for thousands so you're not going to get gourmet food.  But if you want tasty eats, you can't go wrong on either line.

Balcony Cabins - Tie.  Again, a close call.  Balconies are of similar size.  So are the cabins. Virgin gets HUGE points for the hammock chair on the balcony.  But why no closet door?  And, if there are two people in the cabin, one is going to be sitting on the bed, since there's only one chair.  And, the bathroom is functional for one but so tiny.  And, storage is fine for two for a seven day cruise, but is limited.

Virgin gets points, though for the walk-in shower with giant rainfall shower head and hand-held wand for those of us who think using a giant rainfall shower head is like being water-boarded. Plus, the weird configuration of the beds takes up valuable cabin space when you opt for one bed.  I do prefer the firmness of the Virgin bed and it doesn't feel like two beds shoved together (although it is.)  I also really miss bedside table drawers.

Virgin also scores with technology.  I love the control pad and all the cool lighting/drape modes.  When I walk into my cabin at night, the lights automatically come on.  Virgin is light years ahead of HAL when it comes to technology.

In terms of decor, it's like comparing a Kimpton to a Ritz Carlton.  Different but which you prefer comes down to personal taste.

Pools - Holland America.  The pools on Virgin are, at best, cocktail pools.  Great for standing in them with a cocktail but you cannot swim in them.

Loyalty Programs - Holland America.  The highest level on Virgin matches mid-tier on Holland.  Then again after five four-day cruises, you have top status on Virgin.  You have to cruise 400 days on HAL to get free laundry.

Itineraries - Holland America, by a mile. Virgin tried longer itineraries when they first began but their target market wasn't buying.  Holland has world cruises and unique itineraries around the world, with a much bigger fleet.  Virgin has newer ships (a big plus) but they're big, so can't go to smaller ports.  And, they've made a business decision to focus on 4-7 day itineraries.  Shorter than I prefer.

Accessibility - Holland American, by a mile.  I haven't found a way to get to decks 16 and 17 without taking the stairs.  HAL focuses on seniors and makes it easy to navigate the ship in a wheel chair or scooter.  The downside?  There are often a lot of wheelchairs and scooters.

And, let's talk seating.  Almost every other passenger has mentioned the rather unique and challenging seating.  Lots of daybeds.  Lots of deep couches that mean you can't bend your legs.  

Overall Vibe - Virgin, by a mile. Virgin doesn't allow passengers under the age of 18.  They cater to a younger crowd, although on this Transatlantic, there are a lot of us who qualify for AARP.  Still, there's a good mix of 20-somethings to seniors, which I enjoy.  HAL can feel a bit like a retirement home on their longer cruises, although they are working to attract a younger crowd.

I also love that there are no announcements.  Other than announcements in public areas about crew drills, it is like staying in a hotel, with no one waking you up to announce you've docked.

I also love the diversity on Virgin.  I was trying to imagine Bingo with the Diva on a HAL ship.  I suspect the many HAL cruisers from The Villages would have a collective stroke.  Tattoos?  Colorful hair?  Fine with me.

And, there's no Cruise Director.  Instead, there's the Happening Cast.  They lead activities and are around, just making sure everyone is having fun.  Seriously, the Halloween bash?  With free face make-up to get you in the mood?  Stellar.

Entertainment - Virgin. This is not your grandparents entertainment.  Expect games and cultural references that Boomers won't get.  Expect risque humor.  Some "bad" words.  And, entertainment that breaks the stereotypical cruise ship fare.  

The App - Virgin, by a mile. HAL has a history of nautical experience going for it but they need a lot of work on their technology, from their website to the app.  It is not helpful to have a messaging system if there are no notifications that you have a message.

Virgin also invested a lot in lighting and cabin technology.  Even on the newest HAL ships, there seems to be no interest in the types of technology that would appeal to generations past Boomers.

Public Areas - Holland America.  HAL gets the nod because of the Crow's Nest.  And, the Lido, which can be covered during bad weather.  Virgin has a lot of areas to hang out, but I haven't found many with comfortable seating and a view.

Bottom line, I'll happily cruise both lines again.  I'd love to cruise Virgin more but until they add some longer itineraries, I'll stick with HAL.  And, will look forward to next year's Transatlantic cruise on the Scarlet Lady.

 

Why are People Cranky?

I had a moment this morning in the Lido.  No one offered to bring me water or tea when I sat down.  How rude!  I had to walk almost 30 feet to get it myself.  As I carried my cup and glass back to my table I thought about how many people made it possible for me to have such an array of food choices.  I haven't had to lift a finger for myself until the brutality of having to get my own water.  And, to be honest, if I were more patient (and less thirsty) someone would have brought it to me in a few minutes.

I thought about this as I sat looking out at the sea.  I've run into a few people having cranky moments.  Given the ages, I assume many are in pain or discomfort from a variety of ailments.  Or have other issues, perhaps having lost a spouse or other loved one recently.  Most seem to be having a grand time but a few seem grumpy when anything is not exactly to their liking.

I hope they will continue to enjoy the trip and remember that yelling at the nice woman who dishes out ice cream will not enable her to pull a rum raisin cone out of her ear if there is no rum raisin on board.

Speaking of cranky, I happened to be in the hallway as a group of cabin stewards was coming toward me, reporting ofr work.  All of them smiling.  I told them I thought we should have an occasional do it yourself" day when cabin stewards got to sleep in and we all made our own beds and cleaned our own bathrooms.  They thought it was a great idea but we doubt of HAL would go for it.  And it could cause the cranky people some heartburn.

What Do People Wear on a World Cruise?

Like the passengers themselves, attire is varied.  Some passengers enjoy dressing up as part of the cruise experience.  Some don't.  Here are some tips:

• Wear layers.  It is impossible to keep the ship a constant temperature.  And each part of the ship can change from day to day.  My "uniform" is slacks or capris, a blouse or t-shirt and a loose, flowy jacket of some type.  Luckily I own a lot of them because I believe that loose flowy jackets are like having a super power that hides fat.  Please don't try to correct me on that.  When I'm contemplating a dessert I prefer to rationalize that my jacket will hide the indiscretion.  Jackets are way easier than going to a spin class.
• Fashion is in the eye of the wearer.  Typical attire during the day onboard is a t0shirt (often from a previous port), shorts and sandals or gym shoes.  I've recognized a couple of clothing items which makes me smile because I have them too.  Bought them at Sam's Club.
• Do people dress up?  Yes!  Some dress like they're going to high tea all day, every day.  Full hair and make up.  I enjoy seeing them and appreciate the effort.  But they're in the minority.  Most of us look about the same as we do running to the grocery store at home.
• What is "smart casual"?  There used to be formal nights, cocktail attire etc.  Now, it's either formal gala night or smart casual.  Smart casual means long pants, shirts/blouses that aren't t-shirts and shoes.  In other words, what you'd wear to a restaurant like Olive Garden rather than what you'd wear to the grocery store.  In the Lido, anything goes.  In the MDR, grocery store attire is fine for lunch but stepping it up just a smidge is typical at dinner.  Not required, however.
• Gala nights - formal attire.  You will see it all.  Some stay in their grocery shopping clothes.  Others spend all day preparing - long gowns, fancy hair and fresh manicures.  I love to sit in the Ocean Bar and watch the couples in their gowns and suits or tuxedoes stroll past on their way to dinner.
  
  The majority of women take my approach.  a sparkly top, slinky black pants and fancy sandals. The majority of men wear at least a sports coat on Gala nights but some opt for tie, no jacket.
• Should you wear your HAL bathrobe to dinner in the Lido.  No.  Never.  Just to clarify - robes are for your cabin, not the rest of the ship.  That is a hard and fast rule, just like the rule that you cannot wear pajamas and a robe on an airplane.  Sadly, that is just my rule and many Americans do not share my sense of decorum.  They are wrong.  Opinionated and judgey, aren't I?
  
  I'm happy to report that unlike on my recent trips on the Zuiderdam and Westerdam, I have not seen a single bathrobe in a public area.  And I bet not a single passenger wore pajamas on their flight to Ft. Lauderdale.  Depends, perhaps, but not pajamas.
  
  I have friends who do not share my views and believe that it doesn't hurt anyone else for people to wear whatever they like, wherever they are.  I believe it comes down to respect for yourself and others.
  
  To me, it's like bringing a baby to a fine dining restaurant.  I love babies and encourage parents to dine out.  But part of my fine dining experience is the atmosphere.  Quiet music, the sound of clinking silverware and wine glasses.  Not a screaming baby.  And the same with clothes.  If you want to roll out of bed and throw on yesterday's clothes that's fine.  But then please head to McDonalds, not a $100 a dinner restaurant.  Rant over.

Tips on Cruising on the Amsterdam

The bathroom has not changed in 19 years.

Body soap, shampoo and creme rinse dispensers.  I love the faucet - you set the temperature once and then just turn it off and on every day.  Wish I had one like it at home.

Plenty of towels.

Two hair dryers - this one and one in a drawer in the desk.  They both work fine but not great.  If I had thick long hair, I'd bring my own.

This mirror has seen better days.  The center is so worn it's not usable.

My $2 a day 'fridge.  Currently I have the champagne in it that I saved from embarkation day.  I plan to open it when we get to Antarctica.

I wish I could figure out a way to comfortably sit and enjoy the ocean just outside my window. 

Old school "dumb" tvs.  A few channels and you can go to Guest Services and rent a movie for free.  HAL tell me again why you're updating cabins AFTER your premier cruise?  C'mon, even I have a smart tv at home.

The only two outlets in the room.  One US style, one European style with two prongs.

Unfortunately, Holland America doesn't provide really detailed information about each ship, and if you're doing a long cruise it really helps to know what you need to pack.  So, here are some observations and opinions.  I'll be adding more as the cruise goes on.  If you have specific questions, just leave a comment and I'll do my best to get an answer.   FYI, I'm in cabin 1866 on Deck 1, an ocean view cabin.

• There are no motion sensor lights in the cabins. You can bring one on board.  I also brought battery operated candles with a remote.  Both are helpful in the middle of the night and the candles are great for atmosphere.
• There are two electrical outlets on the desk.  One is 220 and one is 110.  No USB ports.  You CANNOT bring your own adapter to provide more outlets but can get one from Guest Services for the entire trip, free.  Be sure to pack electrical adapters for charging your USB stuff.  There currently are no USB plugs.  That might change after this cruise, since the ship is being refurbished then.
• The bathrooms are very similar to the newer ships (except for finishes) but have no electrical outlet in the bathroom.  I charge my toothbrush on my desk.  Body soap, shampoo and cream rinse are in a dispenser in the tub/shower.
• Cabins below suite level do not have a mini-bar.  I rented a mini-fridge for $2 a day.  Doesn't take up too much space and I use it keep snacks. For example, sometimes I get a plate of the smoked salmon, herring, cheese, olives, etc from breakfast and have that as my dinner.
• I've been drinking the tap water from the bathroom sink for 16 days and am still alive.  It tastes fine and I'd bet the water they pour in the dining room and Lido is from the same source.
• Things are a bit more upscale than on my recent repositioning cruises on the Zuiderdam and Westerdam.  Things I expected and didn't get on those ships are back.  Orchids on every table in the Lido, with other fresh flowers everywhere.  Shrimp cocktail, salmon and NY steak are available every day.  The other night instead of going to the MDR, I opted to have my Gala dinner in the Lido.  I asked for a lobster tail.  The response was "Just one?  Maybe two?  And steak or prime rib?" 
• If, like my friend Heidi, you are a fan of prosciutto, you will find very little of it.  But tons of herring and other meats you'd like.
• Sundries in the store are very limited.  I recommend bringing all the OTC drugs and stuff with you.  I paid $4.50 on board for five disposable razors.  No cotton balls to be found.  So far, those are the only things I seem to have forgotten.
• There are no alarm clocks in the cabins.
• The passenger to crew ratio seems to be comparable to other ships.  19 years ago on the world cruise it was close to a 1-1 ratio.  Now, waiters, cabin stewards and bar staff are stretched thin.  No complaints about the service but the days of someone carrying your food to your table in the Lido are long gone.  They are doing a much better job in the Lido on keeping glasses filled and tables clean.  I've only seen one bar staff roaming the Lido at dinner (it was like spotting a unicorn) so if you want wine with dinner, bring your own.
• The in-room menu is the same as the rest of the fleet.  Since my September cruise, thought they've added a children's section.  How ironic is that on a ship where the average age is 112. It's great though.  The other night I got a hot dog, celery sticks and carrot sticks for dinner, from the kid's menu.  They also have chicken fingers, mac and cheese, salad and a PBJ.  All complementary.  If you order a hot dog from the Dive In room service menu it costs $4,95.  I don't know what the difference is but the one I had was great.
• Attire:  I'm dedicating a whole post to this one.
• People on this cruise don't decorate their doors.  I've seen 3 and two took them down a couple of days later.  It just isn't a thing like it is on short cruises or Disney cruises.
• There is a free sauna near the gym.  You check in, get a locker key and there is a nice shower area.
• There is a pickleball court.  And a track and a basketball court.  And a full gym with a lot of classes (some free, some not)
• There is a lounge just for Neptune suite cruisers.  No one has invited me but the door was open and it looks nice.  No views, but staff there to help and snacks always available.
• The Amsterdam is one of the few Dam ships to still have self-service laundry.  There are three on board, each with several washers and dryers.  I believe it is $2 a load, per machine.  There's also a n iron and ironing board in each laundry room.  You CANNOT bring your own iron on board.

Sailing Away on January 4, 2020

I'm starting the new year with a 128 night cruise around the world.  Starting January 4, 2020 I'll be traveling on the MS Amsterdam.  I'm currently in the final stages of packing.  And trying to not to get too excited.  Worried about stroking out before I go.

Check back for photos and commentary.  Suggestions and comments appreciated!

Here's where I'll be going...

I took this photo of the Rotterdam from Easter Island  in 2001.  That was my first world cruise.  Almost 20 years later I'l be back in Easter Island on the Rotterdam's sister ship, the Amsterdam. 

Life Choices

One of the challenges of being single is that I don't have a significant other to help me with major life/financial decisions.  On the flip side, not having to take anyone else's opinions into consideration is also a plus of being single.

When I retired I had a lot of decisions to make about finances.  It made me nervous but so far they seem to be working out.  Yesterday, I made another big choice.

I won't bore you with the backstory and all the mental to-and-froing I did before I made the decision but bottom line, I plunked down a deposit on the Holland America World Cruise in 2020.  Not my first, I first sailed the Rotterdam on the 2000 World Cruise.  In 2020, I'll be on the sister ship - the Amsterdam.

This will be home for 128 nights.

That means I'll be on a strict budget (and diet) for the next 1 1/2 years.  And will be doing a lot of planning and research.

The itinerary for this cruise is what sold me.  It will let me visit my 7th continent and 92nd country.  And most of the places at the top of my bucket list, including the Maldives, Seychelles and South Africa.  Check out the whole itinerary here. 

Am I nervous about spending this kind of money on a one-time adventure?  Oh, yeah.  Am I uber excited about it?  YES!

Now I just need to figure out a way to help finance this trip in case I live to be an old lady.